World Cup: How the scoring table looks after Messi's hat trick?

Lionel Messi tied the historic World Cup goal record and immediately altered the top scorers table. With his hat trick against Algeria, the Argentine reached 16 goals and matched Miroslav Klose, a mark that seemed difficult to touch.

The impact was twofold. Argentina gained prominence in the 2026 World Cup debut and Messi once again moved a ranking that had remained almost static for years. The Albiceleste captain is now playing in his sixth World Cup, something reserved for very few.

The tournament scoring list now mixes figures from different eras. There are forwards with extraordinary averages and others with more matches, more wear and tear, and more competitive context. This contrast helps explain why the table continues to be so discussed.

How did the historic table look?

Messi now shares first place with Klose, who scored 16 goals in 4 World Cups. The German scored 5 in 2002, another 5 in 2006, 4 in 2010, and 2 in 2014. His record remained intact for more than a decade.

Ronaldo Nazário holds second place with 15 goals. The Brazilian played in 4 World Cups and left a notable mark for efficiency. His average was extremely high because he scored 15 times in just 19 matches.

Messi reached Klose at the top of the all-time World Cup top scorers table. 📊 pic.twitter.com/UQv4O0D3XL

— FIFA World Cup 🏆 (@fifaworldcup_es) June 17, 2026

In third place is Gerd Müller, with 14 goals. The German played just 2 World Cups, but left brutal numbers. He scored 10 in 1970 and 4 in 1974, with an average greater than one goal per match.

The table also includes Kylian Mbappé, who already has 15 goals. The Frenchman has played 3 World Cups and is still in contention. At 27 years old, he still has room to surpass Klose’s mark.

That possibility depends on how far France advances in the tournament. But his presence has already changed the conversation. Mbappé is the all-time leading goal scorer for his national team in World Cups, according to CNN Español, after surpassing Just Fontaine.

What makes Messi’s record special?

Messi’s total impresses not only for the number. The path also matters. The Argentine captain played 27 World Cup matches and scored in 6 different editions. That shows longevity, adaptation, and consistency.

His first World Cup was in 2006. There he was still a prospect. Then came a long career, with constant evolution and an increasingly central role in Argentina. His current record confirms that continuity.